Lichter, an Australian psychiatrist, compiles Muslim women's stories from 27 countries. Each country chapter begins with background on the country, then presents the voices of long-oppressed women as they question patriarchal and religious beliefs and demand the social and political rights women lack in many Muslim countries. Some demand changes to discriminatory Sharia-based laws, and others campaign openly for political and educational reforms. There is also a chapter on male Muslim activists for reform, and a final chapter on transnational organizations that support Muslim women's rights. An appendix presents a summary of the Arab Human Development Report 2005, prepared by the UN Development Program. B&w political cartoons from the Islamic world press offer a seldom-seen perspective. A glossary is included, along with an extensive list of web sites and conferences. There is no subject index. Annotation ©2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)